Cheerleading coaches Heather Swanstrom and Debb Kent with Principal Mark Hanson
The following is the article printed in the Iowa Cheer Coaches Association program:
Each year the ICCA (Iowa Cheer Coaches Association) asks for nominations for the Administrator of the Year Award. This year, the ICCA is proud to present Mr. Mark Hanson of Ottumwa High School with this award. Mr. Hanson has been the principal of Ottumwa High School for three years and has been instrumental in the development of the "Bulldog Nation." With the development of "Bulldog Nation", Mr., Hanson has brought a strong sense of pride to OHS, now referring to their school as THE Ottumwa High School. First and foremost, Mr. Hanson took the hallways of OHS from being "aesthetically pleasing country blue and mauve" to the newly repainted Bulldog Red and White. By making changes within the halls of the school building, this sense of pride reaches out to every single student and teacher, stating they are united as ONE.
Mr. Hanson is a "charismatic and energetic presence." He is a role model in every sense of the word for this students, leading cheers at athletic events and pep rallies, reinstituting class competitions at pep assemblies, and just generally encouraging student involvement at any and all school activities. In fact, he moved the pep assemblies to the school auditorium in order for all students to attend. Associate Principal Scott Maas commented, "As a former coach and athlete, Mr. Hanson believes that student involvement in activities is an important part of education, and he does everything in his power to improve our programs." All of this comes in conjunction with the cheerleading program at Ottumwa. He helped the cheerleaders put the "pep" back in pep assemblies and supports the cheerleaders as they try to spread school spirit. High School student Emily Bittner said,"Mr. Hanson has not only graced our school with the drive and standards that are essential to succeed, but he has focused in on every club and organization in the school with an open mind - cheerleading included."
In addition to his work with the cheerleaders, Mr. Hanson has initiated the Silver Cord program at OHS. Students are asked to volunteer 100 hours of community service each year of high school. Upon completion of 400 hours, students are awarded a silver cord to be worn at graduation. He has also implemented the 10 Standards of Success to encourage students to become better learners and citizens.
Finally, students and teachers alike made the comment that Mr. Hanson takes the time to listen to every individual, and his door is always open. No only has Mr. Hanson made a difference in cheerleading, the reputation of Ottumwa High School, and Ottumwa as a whole, he has made an impact on the lives of many - forever.
Cheer coaches attending the 26th Annual Spring Coaches' Conference from Ottumwa were: Lindsey Ebert, Debb Kent and Heather Swanstrom. Debb Kent was also recognized for 20 years of cheerleading coaching.
